How to talk to a doctor about STD testing?

Are you frightened to talk about your sex life? Well, in case of getting infected with STDs you somehow should! Here are some tips to get it over with!

Typically, people find it difficult to talk to anyone about their sex life, even to their physicians. However, sometimes the doctor must know the details, as he intends to offer you the most suitable treatment.

On this blog, we walk you through some tips to facilitate the process of talking to your doctor.

Talking can be challenging

Even if the doctor is easy and open about talking about sex life, it can be challenging for shy patients to make the doctor aware of their problems.

In many practices, recording sexual history is a critical part of identifying sexual problems. Still, a 2012 survey found that less than two-thirds of doctors would ask patients about sexual activity and sexual history. Only 45% asked sexual questions, and only 29% asked sexual satisfaction. Doctors who work in sexual and reproductive health are no exception: The study found that obstetricians, gynecologists, and family-care physicians, like any other profession, can avoid sexual themes. That’s why it is difficult for shy people to talk about STD testing.

 We have created a step-by-step guide to help you discuss STD testing with your doctor safely and comfortably.

Find the proper physician

One of the main reasons patients do not discuss sex with doctors is fear of judgment or embarrassment to bring up issues related to sex. You shouldn’t feel this way about your doctor, so it’s helpful to know about them before seeing the doctors. Read their reviews online to see if there are any articles they have written or written about them to give you an idea of ​​whom you have chosen.

Be Prepared

 When you make an appointment with the doctor, make sure to let the dispatcher know what you need to see or whether you need additional time. This allows them to free up space you need and give your doctor time to prepare for your appointment if you don’t visit regularly.

 Before going to your appointment, precisely determine what you want to talk about. It’s helpful to list the symptoms you’ve always had and any ideas you have about what these symptoms are related to.

Jump right into the opportunity

You have limited time with the doctor, so go straight to the topic you want to talk about. 

Ask a Question

 Curious about what your doctor said about STD testing? Ask a question. This is related to you and your care. Your doctor’s job is to help you understand your health and be more capable.

Follow-up

 Once you and your doctor have developed a treatment plan, let them know how it works. The more you communicate with them about your progress, the better you can understand your body and health. Follow-up also helps keep the conversation going, making it comfortable to talk about general topics; the more you speak, the more normal it will be.

 Now let’s take a look at some tips that can help you when you want to talk to your doctor about your sexual condition or STD testing.

Remind yourself: your doctor wants to help you

 Your doctor will never judge or scold you for your decision. Instead, your doctor will help you understand what is happening, treat any problems, and prevent future problems.

 Sometimes it is helpful to remember these facts before your OB appointment. If you feel nervous, take a deep breath before entering the building.

 Remember, your physician is responsible for helping patients overcome illness and lead healthy lives. So, if you think your physician doesn’t care about your best interests, or if you don’t like talking to him about STDs, consider changing one.

Explain your concerns

At some point during your visit, your doctor should ask you if you have any questions, concerns or if you have experienced any abnormalities. It is the best time to discuss STD testing with your doctor.

You do not need to elaborate, but you can start a conversation about STD by explaining what is happening and why you are worried. Describe any symptoms you have. It may be helpful to write down your symptoms before the appointment so you don’t forget any signs.

 If you don’t have symptoms but want to get tested, that’s okay. You are bold about your health issues, which is excellent. According to the CDC, all sexually active women under 25 or any woman with new or multiple sexual partners should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia once a year.

 If you are still nervous about discussing STDs with your doctor, here are some helpful phrases you can use:

1. “I started to know someone, and I want to get tested before we develop the relationship further.”
2. “Now I’m pretty much someone’s partner, I haven’t been tested recently, so I want to do one to make sure I’m healthy.”
3. “I’m sexually active, but I’m not sure about my partner’s sexual history, so he wants to get tested for STD. “

People are uncomfortable about STD testing, but your conversation will remain between you and your healthcare provider. This is a confidential conversation that can help you stay healthy and prevent future infections.

Why should people be tested for STDs?

• STDs usually do not show symptoms immediately.
• Even virgins can have STDs.
• No one likes to think that their spouse is cheating all the time.
• It is never too late to play safely.
• You respect yourself and your sexual partner.

Who needs STD testing more than anyone?

If you are physically dynamic, testing for STD is perhaps the main thing you can do to ensure your well-being. But, first, ensure you have a transparent conversation with your doctor about sexual history and STD testing.

Consequences of not getting tested for STDs

If you don’t get STD tested, you may be likely to experience the conditions below:

• Infertility
• Life-threatening ectopic pregnancy
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Meningitis and bladder problems
• Reduced life expectancy
• Liver cancer

Get STD tested in Las Vegas, Summerlin

If you care about your and your partner’s sexual health, STD testing is available in Southern Nevada Family Medicine. Our team is professional in STD services, and it is also equipped with high-tech devices.

Make an appointment on the same you call on (702) 843-6629.